West Chatham Chapel

Savannah - Ms. Eleanor (Elle) Thoma Rogers, 84, formerly of Oak Ridge, TN died at her home in Savannah on June 26, 2009 under the care of her loving family and Hospice. Elle was born in San Antonio, Texas, daughter of Roy E. Thoma, Sr. and Martha Michal Miller Thoma. Elle's brother, Roy E. Thoma, Jr., of Oak Ridge passed in 2002. Elle was a member of Calvary Baptist Church in Oak Ridge before moving to Savannah in late 2007. She is survived by her four children and their spouses; Carolyn Rogers (Paul Davis), Nancy Aldrich (Craig Aldrich), Patti Harris (Jim Harris) and Al Rogers (Mary Ann Rogers). Elle had nine grandchildren and five great grandchildren. Her family will miss her dearly, but are comforted to know that she is with the Lord.

As a young woman, Elle was active in high school service groups, excelled in academics and created a chemistry lab with her brother in the family's garage. She was athletic and became one of the most accomplished skaters at the local roller rink. She earned a B.S. in Biology from Texas A & M and worked as a pathologist after graduation. She then married and became a very devoted mother to her four children, always finding time to lend a helping hand to others. She thoroughly enjoyed the outdoors and spent numerous hours making a beautiful setting in her Oak Ridge yard. Elle was very giving and thoughtful, a hard worker and a determined individual.

Before retirement, Elle worked at the Union Carbide/Martin Marietta plants as a technical editor. She was often called upon to fill in for temporary vacancies in various offices where her calming spirit and pleasant personality could warm those around her. Her versatility in adapting to new situations also made her a perfect candidate. She was a dedicated volunteer in church and with organizations including the Recording for the Blind.

A memorial service will be held at Calvary Baptist Church, Oak Ridge, TN. The family requests remembrances in lieu of flowers to Calvary Baptist Church, 163 N. Jefferson Circle, Oak Ridge, TN 37830-4858, Hospice Savannah Foundation, Inc., P.O. Box 13190, Savannah, GA 31416, the American Cancer Society or simply plant a Japanese Maple tree in honor of one of the world's sweetest and hardest working gardeners. Thank you for whatever your choice may be.